PREVALENCE OF MULTI-DRUG RESISTANCE COLIFORM BACTERIA IN THE WATER OF RIVER ASHAKA GARI, KUPTO AND ALMAKASHI OF GOMBE STATE

Abstract

This study examines three significant water bodies: River Ashaka Gari, Kupto, and Almakashi, which serve as essential water sources for the surrounding communities. The research aims to explore the prevalence of multidrug-resistant coliform bacteria in these waters and evaluate the associated public health risks. Water samples were collected from various points along River Ashaka Gari, Kupto, and Almakashi using sterilized bottles. Standard microbiological techniques were employed to determine colony counts and isolate coliform bacteria from the samples. These techniques included filtration, culturing on selective media, and performing biochemical tests (Catalase, Citrate, Coagulase, Indole, and Oxidase) to confirm the identity of the isolates as coliform bacteria. The analysis of water samples from the Almakashi River revealed the highest level of bacterial contamination, with 184 colonies identified, whereas the Ashaka Gari River exhibited the lowest bacterial contamination levels. A total of four distinct bacterial strains were isolated from the three water sources. Sensitivity testing indicated that Augmentin and Ciprofloxacin showed strong effectiveness, with inhibition zones exceeding 20 mm, suggesting these antibiotics are highly effective against the tested organisms. In contrast, Salmonella and Pseudomonas displayed resistance to Cefoxitin (30 µg) antibiotics.